File Backup

Get to know about file backup.

File backup is the process of creating copies of all user data and application programs in the computer system and storing in a separate location in case of an emergency. Computer user's are constantly exposed to security threats daily and stand chances of losing their valuable data. This can lead to lost working time and money if there was no backup plan.

Learn more about file backup, its role of file backup and how to decide what to backup is discussed in the following points.

Role of file backup

How to decide what to backup?

How often to backup files?

Tips for data backup

Role of file backup

Computers have become an integral part of business transactions today. E-mails, business transactions files i.e. customer records, payments, delivery letters, review reports are managed by the computer system. In an event of emergency where by the system cannot operate, all the backed up data can be restored when the system is restored to the last point where the computer stopped working.

In real-time systems i.e. online booking a system that uses finger printing back up, in case the primary hard drive breaks down, the secondary drive automatically switches on and the system can run as if there was no hitch. For cases where finger print back up is not possible and the user has the latest backups, they can load the backup files to a new computer and continue with their operations as normal.

Backups saves the user money in terms of trying to recover lost data and working time that would have otherwise been spent is restoring the lost data and the system.

How to decide what to backup?

There is no standard operating procedure on deciding on data to be backed up. This is, however, a personal matter based on the system user. Nevertheless, data that one considers precious and cannot afford to lose should top the list of data requiring backups. However, the following data and information used on day to day transaction in a business can assist the user make informed decision on the right data to back up. Financial records, photos in digital formats, programs downloaded from the Internet, e-mail address book and personal data.

How often to backup files?

Depending on user needs, data backups should be done at least once a week. Where computers are used for long hours for information processing, backup should be at the end of a business day.

Tips for data backup

It is not advisable to back data on a separate logical drive in the same hard drive. In case of the hard disk crash, the entire data including the backup would be lost. Using an external hard drives or DVD ROM or flash drives should be considered as media for backups. Backed data should be well managed i.e. location of backup should be easily accessible when the need arises and the backup clearly labeled.

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